In a significant policy shift aimed at aligning with global educational practices, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has amended its regulations to allow biannual admissions in higher education institutions (HEIs) in regular mode starting from the 2024-25 academic session. This decision follows the successful implementation of biannual admissions under open and distance learning (ODL) and online modes since January 2023.

Background and Implementation

The UGC's decision is based on the positive response from candidates and the increased intake of students in ODL and online programmes. This move is also intended to enhance international collaborations and student exchanges. The amendment allows HEIs to enroll students in two academic sessions each year, in January/February and July/August, rather than the traditional single session that starts in July/August.

In a meeting held on May 15, 2024, the UGC extended this policy to regular mode programmes. UGC Chairperson M. Jagadesh Kumar noted, "These numbers indicate that permitting a second academic session in a year has helped nearly half a million students join their degree programmes without waiting for one full academic year."

Benefits and Challenges

According to the amended regulations, HEIs with the necessary infrastructure and faculty can utilize the biannual admissions opportunity, although it is not mandatory. This flexibility is designed to help institutions increase student intake and offer new programmes in emerging areas.

Professor Yogesh Singh, Vice Chancellor of Delhi University, commented on the initiative: "This is a worldwide practice to admit students in two sessions – fall and spring, and it’s a good initiative of UGC. For large universities like DU, it will be a challenge, but if allowed, we will start with a pilot run and gradually extend it."

Manojranjan Nayak, Founder President of Siksha 'O' Anusandhan, expressed similar sentiments: "Such students will benefit. Moreover, it will increase the intake and thus assist in increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio and make India a 'Global Study Destination' as envisioned in National Education Policy (NEP) 2020."

Broader Implications

The UGC believes that biannual admissions will enable HEIs to plan their resource distribution more efficiently, leading to better functional flow within universities. Additionally, this system will encourage industries to engage in campus placements twice a year, potentially improving employment opportunities for graduates.

Kumar further emphasized the global impact of this policy: "Universities worldwide already follow a biannual admission system. If Indian HEIs adopt this cycle, our institutions can enhance their international collaborations and student exchanges, thereby improving our global competitiveness and aligning with global educational standards."

Conclusion

The UGC's move to implement biannual admissions for regular mode programmes marks a significant step towards modernizing India's higher education system. By providing more flexibility and aligning with international practices, this policy aims to enhance the educational experience for students and improve the overall efficiency and competitiveness of Indian HEIs. As institutions prepare to adopt these changes, the higher education landscape in India is set to become more dynamic and accessible.